Washington Monument to reopen after nearly 3 years

Associated Press

Published 8:24 pm, Sunday, May 11, 2014

WASHINGTON — More than 150 cracks have been repaired, rainwater leaks have been sealed, and the 130-year-old Washington Monument is set to reopen Monday for the first time in almost three years since an earthquake caused widespread damage.

The memorial honoring George Washington has been closed for about 33 months for engineers to conduct an extensive analysis and restoration of the 555-foot stone obelisk that was once the tallest structure in the world.

The monument's white marble and mortar were cracked and shaken loose during an unusual 5.8-magnitude earthquake in August 2011 that sent some of the worst vibrations to the top. Debris fell inside and outside the monument, and visitors scrambled to evacuate. Later, engineers evaluated the damage by rappelling from the top, dangling from ropes.

Now new exhibits have been installed, and visitors can once again ride an elevator to look out from the highest point in the nation's capital. The full restoration cost $15 million. Businessman and philanthropist David Rubenstein contributed $7.5 million to pay half the cost and expedite the repairs.

On Sunday, Rubenstein said he has been surprised how much the monument means to people from across the country who have written him letters and emails. He said he's pleased the job was done on time and on budget.

“It became clear to me that the Washington Monument symbolizes many things for our country — the freedoms, patriotism, George Washington, leadership,” he said. “So it's been moving to see how many people are affected by it.”

During an early look at the restored monument, Rubenstein hiked to the top, taking to the stairs in a suit and tie. Memorial plaques inside the monument from each state seemed to be clean and intact, and the view from the top “is really spectacular,” he said.

During the monument's restoration, the Associated Press had a look at some of the worst damage from the 500-foot level. Stones were chipped and cracked all the way through with deep gashes in some places. Others had hairline cracks that had to be sealed.